Al Yousuf offers Middle East a glimpse of 'next generation' sports car

Visitors to the 8th Middle East International Motor Show, who last year numbered over 75,000, were treated to the region's first glimpse of the roadster when it was displayed at the Motor Show.

"We are proud to present Daihatsu's latest innovation to the people of the Middle East. The Copen ZZ is the next generation of sports car, a hybrid of streamlined styling, extremely sporty performance and energy conservation - all packed into a compact open body. We have strong expectations that the Copen ZZ will be as popular in the region as it has been elsewhere," said Arif Rasheed, Director, Al Yousuf Motors.

The signature teardrop shape has been made longer and wider, and the new Copen is appointed with custom-made Recaro leather seats and a leather MOMO steering wheel for a luxurious feel. Metallic trims add a dash of brilliance to the black interior.

The Copen ZZ also has an electrically operated folding roof which covers the cabin in around 20 seconds in case of a sudden change in the weather. Compared to the conventional soft top, the hard top is quieter, more durable and also safer.

Small cars are growing in popularity among the UAE's drivers, as they offer compact, easy-to-drive and cost-effective transportation. According to Al Yousuf executives, the company has seen year-on-year sales growth of 40 percent across its Daihatsu range.

"We at Al Yousuf believe that the small car's significance can only increase, even as small-car users continue to raise their expectations, demanding style, performance and safety within a compact frame. Together with Daihatsu we will continue to fulfill these expectations,"

added Rasheed.

The Copen ZZ will soon be available for customers in the region.

Al Yousuf will be exhibiting at stands 7G, 7G1 and 7G2 at the motor show, which takes place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) from 12 to 16 December 2005.